Trees in the City of Bellingham

Trees do wonderful things for the
City of Bellingham and contribute to our quality of life. Trees
contribute in many ways. They add beauty, boost property values and
reduce energy costs by cooling our environment. They contribute to our
infrastructure by preventing erosion, reducing storm runoff and supplying
food and shelter for wildlife. Bellingham has a climate conducive to
rapid tree growth with the right combination of sunlight, moisture and
soils.

The City of Bellingham recognizes the value of trees and is a proud
Tree City USA community; recognized nationally for our
citizen based effort to sustain our urban forest.

Street Trees

Improving Bellingham's urban forest requires commitment and action by
city government and by our citizens. As a means to encourage the use
of street trees and other plant material in our city's development, the City
of Bellingham has compiled a list of approved trees to assist you with
selection.

Street Tree Permits

The Approved Street Tree List is a guideline for planting inside the
public right-of-way; the trees on the list are not approved for every
location and every condition. The City of Bellingham requires an
approved Street Tree Permit before planting in a right-of-way. We
recommend that you consult a landscape design professional in the selection
of an appropriate tree and other vegetation for your site before you submit
an application for a Street Tree Permit. The City also has design
standards to ensure proper street tree planting.

Street Tree Pruning or Removal

An approved Street Tree Permit is required before removing or pruning
trees and other vegetation in a developed right-of-way. Controlling
vegetation is the responsibility of the City of Bellingham as well as the
property owners in Bellingham.

Tree Planting Guide

Using the right tree in the right place and maintaining it will provide
healthy, beautiful trees whose benefits can be enjoyed by the community for
many years. The purpose of this Tree Planting Guide is to provide
resources for planting trees in the City.

Tree Planting Volunteer Opportunities

The
Parks Volunteer Program offers individuals and groups the opportunity to
participate in work parties to plant and care for trees and native
vegetation. For more information, call (360) 778-7105.

Park Trees

Questions or concerns about trees in City parks can be directed to Park
Operations at (360) 778-7100. Bellingham Parks & Recreation Department
has two positions dedicated to tree care. The staff in these positions
are ISA Certified Arborists that can help address issues regarding tree
health and tree risks on City property.